Long ago, in the celestial realms, a delightful tale unfolded, revealing the origin of the tradition of offering 21 modaks to Lord Ganesha on the auspicious occasion of Ganesh Chaturthi.
Devi Anusuya, renowned for her culinary prowess and
generosity, extended a warm invitation to Lord Shiva, Goddess Parvati, and
their beloved son, Ganesha, for a sumptuous meal. Excitedly, the divine family
accepted the invitation, eager to savor Anusuya's delectable treats.
As the feast commenced, Devi Anusuya showered her guests
with an array of mouthwatering dishes. However, young Ganesha, with his
insatiable appetite, continued to request more servings, much to the surprise
of everyone present. Despite their best efforts, Ganesha's hunger seemed
unquenchable.
Finally, Anusuya presented Ganesha with a single modak – a
sweet dumpling filled with heavenly flavors. Upon consuming the modak, Ganesha
experienced unparalleled contentment, emitting a resounding burp that
reverberated across the heavens. Intriguingly, as Ganesha released his
satisfied belch, Lord Shiva mirrored his son's action, emitting exactly
twenty-one burps in succession.
Witnessing this divine phenomenon, Goddess Parvati was
filled with awe and curiosity. Eager to understand the significance of this
mystical occurrence, she beseeched Anusuya to reveal the secret behind the
magical modak.
With a gentle smile, Anusuya shared the recipe and
significance of the modak with Parvati, explaining its role in invoking divine
blessings and satisfaction. Grateful for this revelation, Parvati resolved to
establish a sacred tradition in honor of her beloved son, Ganesha.
Thus, it became customary for devotees of Lord Ganesha to
offer twenty-one modaks during Ganesh Chaturthi, symbolizing the twenty-one
burps of satisfaction shared by Ganesha and Lord Shiva. This tradition serves
as a poignant reminder of devotion, gratitude, and the divine bond between a
mother, her child, and the cosmic forces that shape our universe.